Travel Agents Respond to Carnival's New Bottled Drinks Policy

Carnival DreamIn the wake of Carnival Cruise Lines' decision to no longer allow guests to bring any bottled water onboard, agents had a great deal to say about what the new policy would mean for their business and their clients.

Some agents were optimistic about the line's decision to lower the price of bottled water to 12 bottles for $2.99 with an advance online reservation. 

"The real story is: 'the line has reduced its price for bottled water to 12 bottles for $2.99!" said Ron Trimper

"Thank you to all the smugglers for this," said Rita Presnell. "The new price for water is awesome. Same as you could buy at Wal Mart."

Others hoped the move would prompt other lines to lower their own water prices. 

"Now if [only] RC would drop their prices," said Rhonda Gallahar Sweeney

Other agents were skeptical that the move would curb the behavioral issues Carnival had cited as one of the reasons behind the decision. 

"So, when they find that 'behavioral problems' are associated with selling liquor packages, will they ban that too?" asked Donna Gayland. "Like the price of the bottled water, at least that is not a rip off like most cruise lines…however, it all has to do with selling the liquor, not 'behavioral problems,' let's be truthful."

Policy Details

The new policy, which was announced June 9, means that guests will no longer be allowed to bring water, sodas, juices and other non-alcoholic beverages onboard in bottles. Carnival said the move was prompted by onboard safety issues that the line had found to be caused by guests' use of smuggled alcohol. Additionally, the line said that guests had been bringing "excessive amounts" of bottled water, slowing down the embarkation process. 

Guests will still be allowed up to 12 cans or cartons per person of juice, sodas and other non-alcoholic beverages. In addition, Carnival has reduced its bottled water price to $2.99 for 12 bottles with an advance online reservation, or $4.99 per 12 bottles when purchased onboard. 

For the full text of the new policy, as well as an FAQ by Carnival, see our coverage of yesterday's announcement

What do you think of the new policy, and how do you think it will impact your clients and your business? Let us know on our Facebook page and in the comments below.